Izquierdo doubled the visitors tally during stoppage time of the first half

The Croatian’s contract runs out at the end of the season and it is widely expected not to be renewed by the Hammers hierarchy.

But after this awful showing there could be calls for him to go sooner.

The Hammers might be saving a few quid in the compensation they would have to pay Bilic if they got rid of him. But this once-proud club surely cannot continue in this state of limbo for the rest of the campaign or there is a very real chance of them ending up back in the Championship.

Michail Antonio is given assistance on the pitch after picking up a knock

Both teams arrived here locked on eight points just above the drop zone with almost identical records – but far different outlooks.

The doom and gloom enveloping the Hammers could not be more of a stark contrast to the mood at Brighton where the party spirit from winning promotion last season has carried over into their first ever campaign in the Premier League.

Maybe that is why West Ham played as though they had the worries of the world upon their shoulders, the Seagulls went about their business with a fearlessness and freedom found often in clubs unburdened by unrealistic expectations.

Brighton had managed just one goal and one point in their previous four away games.